RONALD C. LEWIS, MD

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This paper looks at Peyronie's disease, a condition that causes painful curvature of the penis and often affects men aged 40 to 70. The study reviews the history and development of treatments, finding that while earlier remedies were not effective, newer options like collagenase injections have shown significant improvement in penile curvature. The research emphasizes the importance of evidence-based treatments and current guidelines which support injection therapy and penile traction as the best nonsurgical options, with surgery being the preferred choice for more severe cases. Who this helps: This helps men with Peyronie's disease and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at patients with chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyradiculoneuropathy (CIDP), a rare condition that affects the nervous system. It found that among 1,942 patients treated in the U.S., 31% switched their treatment within two years because their first-line therapies (like immunoglobulins and corticosteroids) weren't working well enough. Most patients (92%) had outpatient visits, and 40% were hospitalized, indicating there's a high demand for better treatment options for those with CIDP. Who this helps: Patients with CIDP and their doctors.

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This research paper looks at five popular strategies for reducing health inequalities, which are differences in health outcomes among different social groups. The researchers found that while the general ideas behind these methods are clear, there is often a lack of specific details on how they actually address health inequalities. This matters because understanding these strategies better could help implement them more effectively, especially for disadvantaged groups. Who this helps: This helps patients and communities facing health inequalities.

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This study looked at how communication difficulties affect the likelihood of receiving physical and occupational therapy for residents with dementia in long-term care facilities in Ontario, Canada. It found that nearly 80,000 residents were less likely to receive physical therapy if they had issues like hearing loss or struggling to express themselves, but more likely to get occupational therapy if they had trouble understanding or speaking. Using communication aids, like hearing aids or sign language, helped increase the chances of receiving physical therapy. Who this helps: This helps dementia patients in long-term care facilities by highlighting the need for better communication strategies to access therapy.

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This study looked at the heart tissue of thoroughbred horses to understand the changes that occur when they have a condition called paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (PAF). Researchers found that horses with PAF had higher levels of certain genes, including SCN5A and MYH7, which are important for heart function, indicating alterations in muscle and tissue structure. This research is important because it helps us understand what happens in the hearts of horses with this condition, which could lead to better management and treatment options. Who this helps: This helps veterinarians and horse owners monitor and treat horses with heart issues.

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This study looked at the rules that decide who can participate in clinical trials for bladder and head and neck cancers in the UK from 2013 to 2023. Out of 68 trials examined, it was found that common reasons for excluding patients—like being pregnant, having a specific health condition, or low cognitive ability—could unfairly keep certain underserved groups from participating. This is important because making trials more inclusive can help ensure that more people benefit from new cancer treatments. Who this helps: This helps patients, especially those from underserved groups who may be missing out on clinical research opportunities.

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This study looked at the impact of UK residents traveling abroad for elective surgery on the National Health Service (NHS), specifically focusing on complications and costs. It found that 655 patients returned to the NHS for help with complications after undergoing surgery overseas, primarily cosmetic procedures in Turkey, with costs for the NHS ranging from £1,058 to £19,549 per patient. Understanding these costs and complications is crucial because it highlights the potential burden on the NHS from medical tourism, which is not currently well-documented. Who this helps: This helps patients considering surgery abroad, as well as NHS staff managing complications.

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This study looked at how to collect demographic information from participants in health research in a more inclusive way. Researchers worked with public contributors, including individuals from minority backgrounds and those with disabilities, to develop a set of 15 demographic questions that cover various important areas like health, ethnicity, and sexual orientation. Making this information collection more standardized helps researchers ensure diverse voices are included in health studies, ultimately leading to better care for everyone. Who this helps: This benefits patients and researchers by ensuring that health research includes a wider range of perspectives.

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This study looked at 89 cases of monkeypox linked to travel, found in 33 countries between August 2024 and July 2025. Most of the cases occurred in men, and about one-third of them led to additional infections, especially among sexual and household contacts. Understanding these patterns helps health officials design better ways to prevent the spread of monkeypox. Who this helps: This benefits public health officials and those at higher risk for monkeypox infections.

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This study looked at how certain proteins, specifically LBR and LAP2, help keep parts of our genes (heterochromatin) organized at the edge of the cell's nucleus. Researchers found that when they reduced these proteins, heterochromatin got pulled away from the nuclear envelope, which disrupted gene regulation and led to various issues, including an increase in immune responses and problems with how cells develop. These findings highlight the critical role of these proteins in maintaining the stability of our genetic material, which is crucial for normal cell function. Who this helps: This helps patients by improving our understanding of gene regulation and potential treatments for diseases related to cell dysfunction.

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This study looked at how rising sea temperatures due to climate change affect parasitic trematodes, which can harm seabirds in New Zealand. Researchers found that as water temperature increased, the number of infected euphausiids (a type of small shrimp) also rose significantly, with infections appearing within days to weeks. This is concerning because infected euphausiids are smaller and can entangle seabirds, increasing the risk of bird deaths, especially for smaller species that feed on them. Who this helps: This helps seabird conservationists and wildlife management organizations.

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This study looked at how successful a specific foot surgery, called first metatarsophalangeal joint (MTPJ) arthrodesis, was for patients with moderate to severe hallux valgus, a painful toe deformity. Researchers found that patients reported an average improvement of 33 points in their foot health within 26 weeks of surgery, and this improvement continued for two years. However, 19.4% of patients had complications, such as ongoing pain or non-union of the joint. Who this helps: Patients suffering from hallux valgus who are considering surgery.

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This study explored how NHS doctors feel and cope after being involved in serious mistakes, known as the "second victim phenomenon." The researchers interviewed eight doctors and found that these events can deeply affect doctors, influencing their relationships with colleagues and the support they receive from leadership. It is important because doctors who experience this distress can struggle with their mental health, which can ultimately impact patient safety. Who this helps: This benefits doctors and healthcare organizations by highlighting the need for better support systems.

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This study looked at new silica nanoparticles designed to improve the removal of harmful chemicals called PFAS from the environment. Researchers found that positively charged nanoparticles could significantly reduce the amount of a common PFAS, called PFOA, in solutions—keeping only 20% of it in the water compared to 100% with negatively charged particles. This is important because better PFAS cleanup methods can help reduce health risks associated with these persistent chemicals. Who this helps: This helps environmental scientists and communities looking to mitigate PFAS pollution.

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This study looks at how new technologies are changing the way we discover natural products from bacteria, which are important for creating medicines like antibiotics. It highlights that traditional methods of finding these products are getting less priority due to too much overlap in discoveries, but with advanced techniques like metagenomics and long-read DNA sequencing, we can identify new sources for these valuable compounds. By using these modern tools, researchers expect to find many new bioactive substances that can help develop new treatments, addressing the urgent need for new medications. Who this helps: Patients needing new antibiotics and other treatments.

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This study looked at how T cells, a type of immune cell, change the way they read their genes when activated. Researchers found that these changes start as early as 6 hours after activation and mainly affect proteins involved in immune response. Importantly, the way T cells splice their RNA seems to be linked to better responses in cancer patients treated with immune checkpoint inhibitors, with specific alterations seen in T cells from melanoma patients that responded well to treatment. Who this helps: This helps cancer patients, particularly those undergoing treatment with immune checkpoint inhibitors.

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This study looked at how well a new, simpler system for testing and treating hepatitis C worked for homeless people who use drugs. Researchers found that 33% of those receiving care through mobile medical units (MMUs) started treatment within six months, compared to 24% who received standard care. While the MMUs helped some people start treatment faster, overall success rates for treatment completion and cure were low, highlighting the need for better strategies to help these vulnerable individuals. Who this helps: This helps unhoused people who inject drugs and are living with hepatitis C.

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This study looked at how healthcare staff in England felt about a new program called virtual wards, which helps patients get care at home instead of in the hospital. Researchers interviewed 20 staff members and found that understanding patients’ situations was just as important as clinical factors for deciding who should be referred to the program. They also noted that clear communication about the benefits of virtual wards and better training for staff are essential for making the program successful. Who this helps: This benefits patients, their families, and healthcare professionals involved in delivering care.

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This study examined how electromagnetic fields (EMFs) affect nerve cell activity in the brain, specifically in a part called the hippocampus. The researchers exposed brain tissue to a low-frequency electromagnetic field and found that it reduced certain electrical currents in the neurons. These findings show that EMFs can disrupt calcium levels in cells, which is important for how neurons communicate. Who this helps: This helps doctors and researchers understand the effects of EMFs on brain function.

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This study looked at the Kessler 6 (K6) scale, a tool used to identify serious mental illness in people, to see if it works well for those living with a high burden of HIV. The researchers found that the K6 scale is reliable and valid for these populations, meaning it accurately measures mental health issues among them. Although one question was hard for some people to understand, removing it didn’t significantly improve the scale's effectiveness. Who this helps: This helps patients with HIV and their healthcare providers by offering a better way to assess mental health needs.

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The SPRUCE study looked at how patients with cancer report their treatment experiences using questionnaires, comparing paper and electronic methods. By involving patients and the public in developing the study, they found that most participants preferred to fill out these questionnaires online, with 6 out of 50 survey respondents actively participating in improving the process. This matters because it ensures that the study is more relevant and convenient for patients, enhancing their overall experience in clinical trials. Who this helps: This helps patients participating in cancer clinical trials.

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The study focused on improving how changes in clinical trial participation, such as consent withdrawal, are managed, because current guidelines often fail to address real-life issues. Researchers developed 17 guiding principles to standardize these processes, and found strong support for these principles—96% of 280 participants in an international survey agreed with the key ideas presented. This matters because better management of participant changes can enhance the integrity of clinical trials and ensure a safer, more respectful experience for everyone involved. Who this helps: This benefits patients and researchers involved in clinical trials.

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This study looked at certain microscopic organisms, called Gambierdiscus, that produce toxins leading to ciguatera poisoning, a serious illness caused by eating contaminated seafood. Researchers found that two types of Gambierdiscus can produce specific toxins (M-seco-CTX4A/B) that are linked to ciguatera poisoning, confirming that these organisms play a key role in the problem. Understanding these toxins and their sources is crucial because climate change is expected to increase ciguatera cases. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who may experience ciguatera poisoning, as well as public health officials working to prevent it.

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This study looked at how the immune cells in the blood respond to viral infections and vaccinations, particularly focusing on COVID-19. Researchers examined the electrical properties of certain immune cells from people who had never had COVID-19, those who had recovered, and those who received various COVID-19 vaccine doses. They found distinct patterns in these cells' responses, which could help create a new way to measure immunity and could potentially be used for other illnesses as well. Who this helps: This benefits patients, particularly those seeking better ways to understand and improve their immune responses to infections and vaccines.

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This study focused on capturing high-speed videos of a process called rail-sanding, which helps trains start and stop more effectively by applying sand on the tracks. Researchers collected 78 video recordings showing different methods of applying the sand and measured how fast the sand particles moved and how they spread out. This information is important because it can improve train safety and performance by optimizing how rail-sanding is done. Who this helps: This benefits train operators and engineers.

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This study looked at a new treatment called bilateral hypoglossal nerve stimulation (HNS) for people with obstructive sleep apnea who couldn't use traditional therapy. Out of 113 patients, 63.5% had significant improvements in their sleep apnea symptoms, and 71.3% saw better oxygen levels during sleep. This is important because it offers a new option for patients struggling with sleep apnea, potentially improving their quality of life. Who this helps: Patients with obstructive sleep apnea who do not tolerate other treatments.

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This study looked at how breast cancer affects not just health, but also finances and everyday life for patients and their caregivers in the UK. Researchers found that 27% of those with early-stage breast cancer and 35% with advanced cancer faced financial issues, while 17% of patients with early-stage and 47% with advanced cancer struggled to manage their caregiving duties. Understanding these hidden challenges is important because it can help improve support and policies for those affected by breast cancer. Who this helps: This benefits breast cancer patients and their caregivers.

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This study updates UK guidelines for treating uveal melanoma, a type of eye cancer, first published in 2015. The new guidelines include updated practices for testing, monitoring, and treating the disease, reflecting changes in medical knowledge and treatment options since the original guidelines were released. This matters because it ensures that patients receive the most effective and current care based on the latest evidence. Who this helps: This helps patients with uveal melanoma and their healthcare providers.

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This study looked at how to improve the stability of charged molecules used in certain types of batteries, specifically all-organic redox flow batteries (RFBs), which need stable charge carriers for long-lasting performance. Researchers conducted over 6,000 experiments and tested 188 different solvent molecules to see which ones could help extend the lifetime of these charged molecules. They found that only three solvents were significantly better than the most common one (acetonitrile), with no solvent offering more than a threefold improvement, highlighting a major challenge in achieving the needed stability for these batteries. Who this helps: This research benefits battery manufacturers and developers focusing on improving battery lifespan and performance.

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This study focused on developing clear guidelines for how doctors should manage the difficult process of stopping veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (VV-ECMO) in patients with severe breathing problems. Researchers spoke to 12 healthcare experts and reviewed literature, ultimately identifying 14 key priorities for managing this situation. They found eight essential and six desirable priorities that could help doctors provide better care and support to both patients and their families during this complex process. Who this helps: This benefits patients, their families, and healthcare professionals involved in ECMO care.

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This study examined the types and amounts of bacteria, fungi, and yeasts in complex biofilms found in drains of homes and hospitals across Estonia, Germany, and the UK. Researchers identified a variety of organisms and observed how their presence changed under certain conditions. Understanding these microbiota is crucial for developing strategies to prevent and control infections. Who this helps: This research benefits patients and healthcare professionals by improving infection control measures.

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This study looked at how introducing new genetic material from one population of red flour beetles to another could help improve their survival. The researchers found that when they introduced beetles adapted to high temperatures (38°C), the beetles that shared this temperature adaptation significantly boosted the productivity of inbred populations, which are more vulnerable due to inbreeding. Specifically, these matched rescuer beetles led to better outcomes over three generations compared to those without the same adaptation. Who this helps: This benefits conservationists working to restore at-risk beetle populations and other species facing similar genetic challenges.

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This study looked at a protein called TNIK in platelets, which are crucial for blood clotting. Researchers found that blocking TNIK reduced the ability of platelets to function properly, leading to weaker blood clots and less effective clotting overall. Specifically, when TNIK was inhibited, platelet response diminished and thrombus formation was affected, highlighting its important role in blood clotting. Who this helps: This research benefits patients who are at risk for blood clotting disorders, as understanding TNIK could lead to new treatments.

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This study looked at how physical fitness and body composition affect the risk of complications in cancer patients undergoing surgery for advanced pelvic cancers. Out of 247 patients, 17.3% faced major complications after surgery, and those with lower fitness levels showed a higher risk—specifically, those with a peak power output below 1.5 W/kg were 2.6 times more likely to have major issues. Understanding these factors is important because it can help doctors predict complications and potentially lead to better pre-surgery preparations for patients. Who this helps: This helps patients undergoing surgery for advanced pelvic cancers and their doctors.

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This study explored how strongly interacting matter behaves under different temperatures and densities, which is important for understanding things like neutron stars and the early universe. Researchers used a quantum computer to simulate states of this matter (specifically SU(2) and SU(3) gauge theories) and successfully prepared thermal states, marking a significant breakthrough for studying quantum chromodynamics (QCD). This matters because it sets the stage for future experiments that can deepen our understanding of fundamental physics. Who this helps: This benefits physicists and researchers studying particle physics and cosmology.

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This study looked at what helps and what prevents schools from supporting students who are grieving. It found that while there are many barriers—like lack of training and confidence among teachers—there are also factors that make it easier for schools to provide support, such as having proper resources and training available. Understanding these factors is important because it means schools can improve their support for grieving students, leading to better emotional well-being for those affected. Who this helps: This helps students who are grieving and the teachers supporting them.

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This study looked at how individual fingerprint ridges on our fingertips change shape when we touch different surfaces. Researchers found that these ridges can stretch, compress, and shift sideways, but they don't bend much overall. This matters because it helps us understand how our skin is finely tuned to detect small details, which is important for everything from feeling textures to using touchscreens. Who this helps: This benefits patients and anyone who relies on touch for daily activities.

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This study focused on a new type of compound designed to work with the ghrelin hormone, which can help combat muscle loss in patients facing serious illnesses like cancer and chronic lung disease. Researchers created and tested around 24 new compounds, leading to one promising candidate that could enhance muscle growth and help alleviate muscle wasting. This is important because improving muscle health can significantly affect the quality of life for patients suffering from chronic diseases. Who this helps: Patients with muscle-wasting conditions due to serious illnesses.

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This study focused on improving a program called SaFE, designed to enhance sexual health and address dating violence among young people in further education institutions in England and Wales. Researchers collected feedback from staff and students to refine training materials and publicity efforts, ultimately creating materials that were clearer and more engaging. The findings indicate that the modified SaFE intervention is ready for implementation in schools, which is crucial given that sexually transmitted infections and relationship violence are major concerns affecting many young people. Who this helps: This helps students and young adults in further education by providing them with better resources and support for sexual health and healthy relationships.

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This study looked at how social challenges affect people's ability to get cochlear implants, which help those with hearing loss. Researchers found that individuals with higher social vulnerability were referred for cochlear implant evaluations at a younger age but had more severe hearing loss, missed more appointments, and traveled longer distances for care. Overall, only 52.6% of these patients proceeded to surgery, indicating that social factors create significant barriers to access and treatment. Who this helps: This benefits patients with hearing loss, particularly those facing social challenges.

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This study looked at how taking care of children with cerebral palsy who have trouble feeding and swallowing affects the lives of their caregivers in South Africa. Researchers spoke with eight mothers about their experiences, finding that caring for these children often leads to significant emotional and financial strain, but also moments of connection and purpose. It highlights the need for better support services to help caregivers improve their quality of life and effectively care for their children. Who this helps: This helps caregivers of children with cerebral palsy and the healthcare providers who support them.

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This study examined how older adults (ages 55-75) in two struggling Scottish communities view the age-friendliness of their neighborhoods and how this affects their ability to stay active and healthy as they grow older. Researchers spoke with 21 participants and found that many felt their communities were becoming less age-friendly due to physical barriers like poorly maintained facilities, social barriers like fewer places to gather, and service-related challenges such as limited access to healthcare and technology. This matters because as the perception of age-friendliness declines, it can lead to older adults feeling less engaged and supported in their communities. Who this helps: This research helps older adults by highlighting what needs improvement in their communities for healthier aging.

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This research looked at how to help older adults, who are often not using the internet, become more digitally connected. The review found that various programs can help improve their skills and confidence with technology, showing benefits for many older individuals, especially those in rural areas or facing social isolation. Specifically, it highlighted that with the right support, older adults can overcome challenges and use technology more effectively, which is increasingly necessary as services move online. Who this helps: This benefits older adults, especially those at risk of digital exclusion.

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This study looked at the experiences of people living with young-onset dementia (YOD) and their caregivers in Australia, focusing on the challenges they face in accessing support services. It found that 70% of caregivers reported a 12-month delay in getting a diagnosis after noticing symptoms, and 60% of those with YOD had trouble accessing the National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS). These findings highlight the need for better support and resources for individuals with YOD and their families, as many struggle to find help in areas like health and employment. Who this helps: This helps patients with young-onset dementia and their caregivers.

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This study focused on how young-onset dementia (YOD) is diagnosed in Australia, examining the experiences of patients, caregivers, and doctors. Researchers surveyed 313 participants, finding that symptoms typically began at around 56 years old and were officially diagnosed a couple of years later. While the study showed some improvement in timely diagnoses, it also revealed ongoing challenges, like varying access to care and a lack of awareness about YOD among both healthcare professionals and the public. Who this helps: This information benefits patients with young-onset dementia and their caregivers, as well as healthcare providers working with them.

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This study looked at how a mindful self-compassion program could help medical trainees deal with stress and burnout. After six weeks of training, participants reported feeling significantly more mindful, connected to others, and satisfied with life, although their burnout levels did not change. These findings are important because they show that simple mindfulness interventions can effectively improve well-being in medical trainees, which could lead to better patient care in the long run. Who this helps: Medical trainees and, indirectly, their future patients.

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Doctors who treat patients with serious blunt injuries to the liver or spleen using non-surgical methods should perform repeat imaging scans 48-72 hours after the initial injury, even if the patient seems fine, because this catches dangerous complications early enough to treat them. Researchers tracked over 4,000 patients across 43 hospitals and found that scheduled repeat scans identified problems in about 7% of cases, with more than half of those patients needing procedures or surgery to fix the complications. Waiting until patients show symptoms results in some complications being missed or treated too late, so the study confirms that routine follow-up imaging is essential for moderate-to-severe liver and spleen injuries.